Servicewomen say end of combat ban will level playing field: The decision to end the so-called combat exclusion policy, which barred servicewomen from direct combat roles, will open hundreds of thousands of jobs formerly limited to men. "It's a great opportunity for women who want to pursue these jobs," said one female Maryland National Guard captain.

Man allegedly stabs wife hours after release on own recognizance: Charged for the sixth time in six months with hurting his wife, Daren Ruffin was released on his own recognizance. Hours later, he was charged with first-degree murder. Police found Ruffin's wife stabbed to death in the couple's apartment last Friday and say Ruffin confessed to the crime.

Defense in Leopold trial exepected to present case: Anne Arundel County Executive John R. Leopold's defense attorneys will begin making their case Friday, arguing that his alleged use of county staff for personal errands and political gain does not amount to a crime